Dehradun Hits 300+ Plastic Banks Mark: Scientists, Teachers, and Activists Raise Alarm on Plastic Waste..

Dehradun: Scientists, teachers, cultural workers, and social activists have raised serious concerns over the growing plastic menace.

They warned that if plastic waste is not controlled and managed properly, the planet will face dire consequences.

At an event titled "Celebration of 300+ Plastic Banks" at IRDT Auditorium, Survey Chowk, experts and citizens gathered to discuss the escalating crisis.

The program, organized by SDC Foundation, emphasized the need for waste segregation and accountability for littering.

Plastic Banks: A Movement Gaining Momentum

Since 2019, SDC Foundation has set up over 300 Plastic Banks across Dehradun. 

The initiative started with just one school and 55 girl students at Upper Primary School, Khurbura. Today, it reaches about one lakh people, including 40,000 school students.

These plastic banks have been established at 132 Maggi Points, 92 schools, 40 hostels, 10 universities and colleges, and 8 showrooms. The campaign aims to reduce plastic use and encourage proper disposal.

Experts Speak: Urgent Need for Waste Management

Chief Guest Dr. Harender Bisht, Director CSIR IIP, called the initiative a positive step, but stressed that more efforts are needed for proper plastic disposal.

Renowned folk singer Narendra Singh Negi highlighted that while urban areas are becoming aware, rural regions still struggle with plastic pollution. He pledged to raise awareness in villages.

Anoop Nautiyal of SDC Foundation urged citizens to minimize plastic usage and push for stricter policies on waste management.

Panel Discussion: From Waste to Wealth

A panel discussion brought together experts from CSIR IIP, Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Ess Ell Honda, Swayambhu Recycling, and SGRR Public School.

The session, moderated by Prerna Raturi of SDC Foundation, explored the waste-to-wealth concept. Experts noted a shift in public perception—plastic is no longer just garbage; it can be a resource. However, segregation at source remains the biggest challenge.

Students Showcase the Plastic Crisis

Students of Sophia High School, Nashville Road, performed a powerful play. 

The message was clear—once fertile land is now drowning in plastic.

Awards for Leading Schools

The first-ever Plastic Bank was set up at Government Upper Primary School, Khurbura, which was honored for its pioneering efforts. Other top-performing schools included:

Bhawani Balika Inter College, Ballupur

Government Girls Inter College, Lakhibagh

Sophia High School, Nashville Road

Shri Mahavir Jain Kanya Pathshala, Tilak Road

Shri Guru Nanak School, Racecourse

Plastic Awareness Through Video Competition

1st Prize: Government Girls Inter College, Lakhibagh

2nd Prize: Sophia High School

3rd Prize: CNI Girls Inter College, Rajpur Road

Six more schools received consolation prizes.

Institutions Join the Cause

Top institutions such as Wildlife Institute of India, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, Quantum University, Tulas Institute, UPES, and BS Negi Institute contributed to the event.

Recognition was also given to Swami Rama Himalayan University, Ess Ell Honda, Quantum University, Centrio Mall, Hope Town Girls School Selaqui, and Shriram Automobiles for their long-term support in the campaign.

The event saw participation from several high-ranking officials, including:

Abhishek Rohilla (Additional Secretary, Tourism)

Pradeep Joshi (Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board)

Ganesh Kandwal (FDA)

Dr. Sanat Kumar, Dr. Avinash (IIP)

Anil Sati (Health Department)

Community leaders, journalists, business representatives, and activists were also present.

The event was conducted by Dinesh Semwal of SDC Foundation, with a vote of thanks from Pyarelal and Praveen Upreti.

The Message is Clear: Act Now on Plastic Waste

Plastic waste is no longer just an environmental issue—it’s a threat to our future. The Plastic Bank initiative has proven that change is possible. However, individual efforts, stricter policies, and continued awareness are crucial.

The fight against plastic pollution has begun. Will you join in?